HEKS/EPER is making a difference in the «Church cooperation» in Colombia

The over 50-year old armed conflict between Government and FARC rebels, single-crop farming for export and biofuel production as well as mining projects all combine to jeopardize the livelihoods of rural communities in Colombia and give rise to forcible evictions. The civilian population gets caught up in the conflict owing to the militarization of daily life and the demands being made by armed groups. The consequences are serious human rights violations, violence, poverty, hunger, displacement, as well as the destruction of social networks and traditional values. Through its projects, HEKS/EPER strives to help create a more just and peaceful society and to improve the livelihoods of internally displaced families and rural communities.

Facts

In 2017, some 2800 people living in conflict situations were reached through peace initiatives or protective measures.

Alongside development cooperation and humanitarian aid, church cooperation is the third pillar of HEKS/EPER's international work. For decades in some cases, HEKS/EPER has been supporting, advising, promoting and accompanying Reformed Churches in Eastern Europe, Italy and the Near East in their diaconal work and in building up vibrant church communities. HEKS/EPER supports various church-run social activities, especially for children and young people. In addition, HEKS/EPER is ensuring the continued existence of active church parishes through financial and logistical support for the renovation of run-down church buildings. Lastly, through church parish partnerships as well as exchange and continuing education programmes, HEKS/EPER promotes dialogue between Reformed Church parishes in Switzerland and partner churches abroad.